Bulls Fall in Preseason Opener

The Bulls fell to the Mavericks in their preseason opener last night 110-102.  Number one overall pick Derrick Rose got the start, but got off to a slow start in the game.  The Memphis product missed his first four attempts from the field, but hit four of his next five to finish with 10 points in the contest.  He added five assists and three rebounds in 27 minutes of play, but also turned the ball over six times.  Luol Deng, Aaron Gray and Darius Washington tied for the team lead in scoring with 14 apiece.  Gray looked good, also pulling down nine rebounds in 25 minutes of work.  Drew Gooden got the start on his way to an efficient 11 points and seven boards.  Tyrus Thomas showed that he is still limited offensively, netting just six points in the contest.

Considering the circumstances, this was a pretty good outing for Rose.  The turnovers are to be expected from a rookie point guard in his first action against true NBA competition.  Luol Deng looked sharp and is poised for a bounce back season.  Bulls fans have to like what they saw from Aaron Gray, who could emerge as the team’s starting center at some point this season.  If he and Gooden can provide solid interior play, this team will be much better off this year.

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